UCLA offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone’s status uncertain for bowl game

It remains to be determined whether UCLA offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone will call plays against Nebraska in the Foster Farms Bowl on Dec. 26, Coach Jim Mora said Saturday.

“My gut feeling is that he will be able to,” Mora said.

Mazzone was hospitalized earlier in the week because of what Mora called a “serious deal,” but UCLA has not disclosed the health issue.

Mazzone returned to practice Thursday, but was not on the field Friday or Saturday.

“He came out here that one day, which he probably shouldn’t have, but he’s a typical football coach and he’s doing OK,” Mora said.

UCLA will travel to San Francisco on Monday to begin bowl preparations. Mora said Mazzone was scheduled for a doctor’s appointment the same day in Los Angeles and that he “might have to go by car” to join the team.

Asked whether he had made a contingency plan for a play caller, Mora said it would be a collaborative effort.

UCLA and Nebraska are scheduled to kick off at 6:15 p.m. at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.